Afghan National Security Forces and coalition special operations forces partner to conduct clearing operations

URUZGAN, AFGHANISTAN

09.25.2011

Story by Spc. Ashley Bowman 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

URUZGAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Afghan National Security Forces, assisted by coalition special operations forces, conducted clearing operations in the Shahid-e Hasas district, Sept. 18-23.

The partnered force conducted the operation to improve security in the Khod Valley by demonstrating their presence in the area, which includes the establishment of a checkpoint in the nearby village.

Insurgent fighters did not attack the combined ANSF and coalition SOF patrol during their search through the area for weapons caches and insurgent activity.

According to a coalition SOF team leader, the partnered element did find a remote controlled improvised explosive device near the village.

Once the village had been cleared, ANSF and coalition SOF met with the village elders residing in the area. The elders expressed their concerns regarding security and development needs, including medical care, road infrastructure and irrigation issues during the engagement.

“When presented with the idea of Afghan Local Police and a checkpoint in the area, the elders were very receptive and even had several individuals come forward wishing to join the ALP immediately,” a coalition SOF team member said.

Following the shura, villagers agreed on a location to build a checkpoint and over 15 villagers volunteered to begin work on the project immediately.

“The checkpoint in the Khod Valley will help bring people closer to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan by increasing security and allowing a better freedom of movement, as well as showing them that we are committed to helping secure their villages,” a coalition SOF team leader said.

• Date Taken: 09.25.2011
• Date Posted: 09.30.2011 03:22
• Story ID: 77805
• Location: URUZGAN, AF